“For All the Saints, who from their labors rest…” begins hymn number 711 in the United Methodist Hymnal. This Sunday, we are observing All Saints Sunday, which is typically observed on the first Sunday in November. It is a day of remembrance for the saints. United Methodists observe this day in unity with Christians of many times, places, cultures, and languages. We celebrate the witness of all the saints — all those who live and die in the Lord. In so doing, we bear witness to the hope that is in us, that we may be saints, those becoming perfect in holiness, in our own times, places, and cultural settings.
All Saints Day has been a significant celebration in the life of the church since at least the sixth century, and it marks the beginning of the church year in the Orthodox Church. While John Wesley did not include it in the three non-Sunday “Holy Days” he preserved from the Anglican calendar (Christmas, Good Friday, Ascension Day), he often remarked how significant the day and worship on this day was in his own life. (Adapted from GBOD and BOW 413)
In honor and in memory of all the saints in our congregations and lives, we will be lighting candles for each person after receiving communion. Come join us to give thanks to God “For all the saints!” It will be a service you won’t forget. You are always welcome to join us for any or all of our ministry activities! Check out the announcements below for details of our upcoming events. If you have any questions, feel free to post a reply or email us. We can’t wait to see you!
On Saturday morning, a few folks went door-to-door in the neighborhood around Deer Creek to introduce ourselves, get our name out there, and distribute bags and flyers to folks in an effort to Feed the Hungry of Harford. (See the tab with that title for more details!). We’ve had a great response so far…but are still looking for help! Can you help us? See the announcements for details, or contact us.
As the weather gets colder, remember that the eternal warmth of God’s love and mercy is always available to you. May God bless you and your journey!
Annoucements:
Deer Creek needs a few folks on Thursday to stop by the mailboxes of the houses that received grocery bags for food donations for our Thanksgiving and Christmas family. You will need to pick up the bags and bring them to the church. Please let us know today if you are interested or available to help. Our family is a mom; a son (6, almost 7); and a daughter (3 mo.).
A Nominations Committee Meeting will be held TOMORROW at 7pm for BOTH CHURCHES. Not sure if you are on the committee? Check the posted list or ask Bonnie. Please bring your ideas with you. Location: Mt. Tabor.
A P/SPRC Meeting will be held on Monday, November 22 at 7pm for BOTH CHURCHES. This will be to go over the pastoral end-of-the-year evaluation. Location: Deer Creek.
Please bring in ready-to-eat food for our unhoused neighbors. We have plenty of utensils. Need ideas? Talk to Tracy. Location: Mt. Tabor.
A VERY SHORT Bible Study on Psalms will be offered during Advent (starting the week of November 28). We will meet for 4 weeks and look at 4 different Psalms for 1 hour. This will be a creative and reflective time. There will be no preparation, homework or workbook. Come for one or all four of the sessions. We’ll start with Psalm 1 and end with Psalm 150. Let Bonnie know you are interested. Possible meeting times include Mondays (day or evening), Fridays (late morning), or Sundays before/after worship. Location TBD.
An Advent Celebration will be held on December 12th at 5pm. The Women’s Circle will provide hors d’oeuvres and beverages. Please bring a dessert. If you would like to participate in a gift exchange, please bring a wrapped gift costing $5 or less. A hymn sing is planned. Come one and all and make merry (please invite family and friends)! Location: Deer Creek.
Christmas Eve Services will be combined. BOTH Deer Creek and Mt. Tabor will gather together at 7pm on Friday, December 24th, for a traditional, country candlelight service with a modern message. There will be a children’s message and children’s bulletins available as well. We will be singing “Away in a Manger,” “He is Born,” “Silent Night,” and “Joy to the World.” The combined choirs will sing an anthem. The sermon is entitled, “The Littlest Jingle Bell.” Join us to discover the REAL reason for Jesus Christ and the meaning behind Christmas. Location: Deer Creek.
Deer Creek Charge United Methodist Church 
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